Although we happen to live in a part of the country where you can dine outside all year long, there’s still nothing quite like enjoying an afternoon or evening meal during the summer season when summertime sunsets and a cool summer breeze are in full force. Whether it’s at the beach, the lake, or even the mountains, these eight restaurants are a superb choice for memorable outdoor dining in SoCal. You won’t want to miss these spots before summer’s end.

1. The Ranch House
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The Ranch House, 102 Besant Rd, Ojai, CA 93023, USA
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A visit to The Ranch House in Ojai is always an elegant affair. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by lush greenery, a koi pond, and endless gardens for an experience to remember. Address: 102 Besant Rd, Ojai, CA 93023.
2. Back on the Beach Cafe
Back on the Beach Cafe, 445 CA-1, Santa Monica, CA 90402, USA
Back on the Beach Cafe
When you want to dine with the ocean only a stroll away, you'll find Back on the Beach Cafe will hit the spot. Located in Santa Monica, this laid-back eatery is one of the best waterfront restaurants in SoCal, offering a seasonal menu and stunning views that are undeniably epic. Address: 445 CA-1, Santa Monica, CA 90402.
3. Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens
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Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station, 2816 Historic Decatur Rd UNIT 116, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
Stone Brewing World Bistro And Gardens - Escondido, 1999 Citracado Parkwy, Escondido, CA 92029, USA
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With a park-like setting, craft beer, and a menu that's a perfect blend of gourmet and casual, this outdoor restaurant in SoCal should be at the top of your list. Stroll the grounds, enjoy a peaceful waterfall, and get lost in the serene setting all around you. Address: 1999 Citracado Parkway, Escondido, CA 92029.

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4. The Oaks at Lakeside
The Oaks at Lakeside, 16817 Ventura Blvd, Encino, CA 91436, USA
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With its refreshing lakefront view at Lakeside Cafe in Los Encinos Historic State Park, this outdoor eatery in SoCal will become your new favorite destination to score a great meal this summer. Address: 16817 Ventura Blvd, Encino, CA 91436.
5. Malibu Cafe
Malibu Cafe Parking Lot, California 90265, USA
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Enchanting and rustic are two words that best describe Malibu Cafe. Tucked inside the Malibu Hills, this local gem offers up a dreamy outdoor space where you can sink your teeth into a mouthwatering meal in a setting that's perfect for social distancing and enjoying the beautiful sights and sounds of nature all around you. Address: 327 Latigo Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265.
6. The Front Yard
googlemaps/the front yard
The Front Yard, 4222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91602, USA
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Outdoor restaurants in a garden setting always add a touch of magic to a meal. With its lush greenery, colorful flowers, and canopies of umbrellas to protect you from the harsh afternoon sun, a meal at The Front Yard in SoCal is always a divine experience. Address: 4222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91602.
7. Rose Canyon Cantina and Grill
Rose Canyon Cantina & Grill, 20722 Rose Canyon Rd, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678, USA
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When you're craving Mexican food, there's nothing more delicious than the authentic menu at Rose Canyon Cantina. More than just great food you'll also find an outdoor patio for dining that is a magical hideaway with charm galore. Address: 20722 Rose Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679.

So many great places to enjoy in Southern California before the end of summer. Do you have a favorite place on this list? We’d love to know, so please share in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more of the best outdoor dining in SoCal.

Do you have a favorite waterfront restaurant in Southern California? Tell us about it on our nomination page, and you just might see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Outdoor Dining in SoCal

Katie Lawrence | April 19, 2022

What are the best waterfront restaurants in SoCal?

If you're one of many Southern Californians who believe food just tastes better when it's accompanied by ocean views, you'll love the plethora of waterfront restaurants our area offers. One of the best is Geoffrey's in Malibu, located right on the Pacific Coast Highway. It doesn't look like much on the outside, but this local hotspot boasts some of the freshest seafood around in an upscale atmosphere. The sunsets are incredible! You also can't go wrong with The Lobster, a century-old icon mere steps from the Santa Monica Pier.

What are some of the best things to do during summer in SoCal?

Southern California is the ultimate outdoor playground in the summertime. Whether you like to hang ten on a surfboard, sink your toes in the sand, stroll down the Santa Monica Pier, or roll the windows down and take a scenic drive down Highway 1, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy summer in SoCal.

What are the best restaurants in SoCal?

Southern California has so many incredible restaurants, it's almost impossible to narrow down the list - but we can try! It really depends on what area of SoCal you're looking to dine in. Let's take Calabasas, for example. Pedaler's Fork is the star of the show here, offering farm-to-table cuisine in the most beautiful setting imaginable. When it comes to the Los Angeles area, it doesn't get much better than Tam O' Shanter. A local institution since 1922, this longstanding eatery serves up classic pub fare in a charming, Old World atmosphere. If you're feeling indecisive, the prime rib is a crowd favorite!

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